Filipino-style Sildesalat

Ingredients

In this Filipino adaptation of Sildesalat, we incorporate Filipino flavors and ingredients to give the dish a unique twist. The original Danish recipe is typically made with pickled herring, onions, and potatoes. However, in this Filipino version, we use fresh herring fillets marinated in calamansi juice, vinegar, and spices. We also add tropical fruits like mango and pineapple to enhance the sweetness and acidity of the dish, creating a refreshing and vibrant salad that reflects the flavors of the Philippines. We alse have the original recipe for Sildesalat, so you can check it out.

• 500g fresh herring fillets, deboned and cut into bite-sized pieces 500g fresh herring fillets, deboned and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with a mixture of lime and orange juice) 1 cup calamansi juice (or substitute with a mixture of lime and orange juice)
• 1/4 cup vinegar 1/4 cup vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ripe mango, diced 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 cup pineapple chunks 1 cup pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lettuce leaves, for serving Lettuce leaves, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine calamansi juice, vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
2. 2.
   Add the herring fillets to the marinade and toss gently to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, combine the diced mango, pineapple chunks, red onion, and red bell pepper.
4. 4.
   Remove the herring fillets from the marinade and gently squeeze out any excess liquid. Add the herring to the bowl with the fruits and vegetables.
5. 5.
   Toss everything together until well combined.
6. 6.
   Serve the Filipino-style Sildesalat on a bed of lettuce leaves and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Herring fillets — Ensure that the herring fillets are fresh and deboned before using them in the recipe. If fresh herring is not available, you can use pickled herring and rinse it well to remove excess saltiness.
• Calamansi juice — If calamansi juice is not available, you can substitute it with a mixture of lime and orange juice in equal parts for a similar citrusy flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a finely chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
• Allow the salad to marinate for longer to enhance the flavors.
• Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing taste.

Serving advice

Filipino-style Sildesalat is best served chilled as an appetizer or light lunch. It pairs well with crusty bread or as a topping for crackers. Serve it on a platter or individual plates, garnished with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Filipino-style Sildesalat, arrange the herring fillets, fruits, and vegetables on a bed of vibrant green lettuce leaves. Garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro and serve it in a colorful salad bowl or on a decorative platter.